Hampshire Talented Athlete January Success

Olivia Breen - Bronze Medal Paralympian - Athletics

Olivia Breen was part of the women's T35/38 4x100m relay team at the London 2012 Paralympic Games where she earned a bronze medal. Olivia enjoys listening to Beyonce and Rhianna, she cannot live without her mobile phone and counts Dirty Dancing as her favourite film. She competes for City of Portsmouth Athletics Club in 100m and 200m and 4 x 100m relay and is looking to start competing in the long jump.

SHIOW: What are you most notable achievements to date?

OB: Getting a bronze medal in 4 x 100m relay (T35/8) and reaching the finals of the 100m and 200m at London 2012 Paralympic Games. I also got a bronze medal in 100m and 200m at European Championships in the Netherlands in 2012 and was Highly Commended in Aviva Daily Telegraph Young Persons Award for Excellence in Disability Sport 2012. To top off a great year I was shortlisted for BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year 2012.

SHIOW: What are your targets for 2013?

OB: To be on the podium at the IPC World Championships in Lyon.

SHIOW: What is the biggest challenge you have faced in your sport?

OB: It was hard to stay focussed after the false start in the first heat of my 100m at the Paralympic Games. I was really annoyed as I can't hear so didn't hear the gun to alert runners about the false start. The marshals are supposed to wave red flags as well as fire a gun following a false start but they forgot! I ran my best time in this heat and then I had to run another heat and in the final so I was really tired.

Trying to remain focussed and positive and not get too agitated was quite a challenge. I was allowed to see the UKA doctor and he helped to calm me down but I had to work hard to keep my cool.

SHIOW: What is your favourite sporting moment, either as a participant or spectator?

OB: Winning a bronze medal at the Paralympic Games in front of all my family and friends. 200 people from my school, Bohunt in Liphook, were at the stadium.

SHIOW: What are your top tips for aspiring athletes?

OB: Never give up, push yourself and stay positive.

SHIOW: Who is your sporting hero?

OB: Usain Bolt - he is so incredibly fast and funny!

SHIOW: Who has most influenced your success?

OB: My parents because they have always encouraged me to be the best I can be.